Last month I did something I have never done before, a bento workshop with Bento By Kat and Heinz Philippines. Two thoughts keep racing through my mind. First, Manila has everything! I can't imagine our little suburb town outside of Seattle has bento classes readily available for me to take like I can here in Manila. Second thought, what a fun way to embrace and journey through motherhood. I did a series two months ago, Investing In Motherhood, and it was about making the journey fun and banking on yourself as a mother. Kat has nailed it. She is a make up artist turned mom turned bento maker turned business woman. Filipinas know how to chase a dream and get. it. done. I am constantly inspired. I like to call myself a creator. I am not an artist but it doesn't stop me from creating. However, I am not going to lie, I have to try really hard to get a recipe correct and make it look pretty. One of the elements I took away from our bento workshop was to have fun! Be playful and enjoy the creative process. In the end, you'll have fun creating and your kids will certainly have fun admiring and eating your 'artwork'.

Step 1: Using ketchup to color the rice skin color. Step 2. Shaping Kelly Ketchup (or Darth Vader). Step 3. Dressing her up with the egg omelette. Step 4. Hair and face. It's harder than it looks but still fun! Step 5. The details. It's also so interesting to see how different creations are even though we all used the same materials.

Go to something new! Even if it is out of your comfort zone, push yourself. Wether it is to pique an interest or make new friends, this is a great place to start. You can find more about Kat's workshops here and be inspired from her Pinterest board. Thank's always to lovely hosts and sponsors such as Heinz PH who make these events happen. Always grateful for proactive organizers like Monica.